Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio
NEWTON, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — A nearly century-old tradition of Italian pride is planned to make a return after being abruptly removed back in 2025.
The community of Nonantum in Newton was devastated when the city painted over red, white, and green line markings on Adams Street representing the Italian flag, citing federal safety standards as the reason. The markings were replaced by double yellow lines overnight.
Owner of Salvi’s Barbershop on Adams Street, John Mula, said he saw firsthand the heartbreak that came with the changes.
“It keeps the community together, and that’s what we need,” said Mula. “It was tough, because it was right before our annual festival, which brings people from all over, not just the Italian community. All walks of life, they come here and celebrate the Italian culture.”
Newton Mayor Marc Laredo announced on Thursday that the red, white, and green lines would be making a triumphant return, after new designated parking lanes removed the need for double yellow lines.
Lauren Kirchberger has lived on Adams Street for 10 years and said she’s looking forward to seeing the colored lines return.
“Great news to me, I think everyone’s going to be very, very happy that they listened, and realized people were upset, and it meant a lot to us,” said Kirchberger. “So I think that’s good news that they’re going to bring it back for the neighborhood.”
Mayor Laredo said DPW contractors will begin painting the new lines as soon as the weather permits.
WBZ NewsRadio’s James Rojas (@JamesRojasMMJ) reports.